Therapies which may benefit Runny Nose

Runny nose, also known as Rhinorrhea (derived from the Greek 'rhinos'
meaning 'nose' & rhoia' meaning 'flowing') is the excess discharge
coming from the nasal passages. A runny nose (as well as a stuffy or
blocked nose) is a symptom of the common cold or viral infection as
well as allergies e.g. hay fever, dust etc. & influenza & sinus
infections.

Causes of runny nose

A runny nose is caused by inflammation of the nasal passage lining and
blood vessels, typically from a viral infection such as the common
cold. Allergies and sinus infections are also commonly associated with
a runny nose.

Less common causes include obstructions in the
nose from a foreign body or problems with the septum (the dividing wall
between nasal passages). Environmental factors such as pollution can
cause a runny nose and in rare cases in can be a sign of a tumour.

Other causes of a runny nose include:

Cold weather

Sudden drop in temperature

Eating spicy food

Enlarged adenoids (small tissue that hangs from the back of the nasal cavity)

Tobacco smoke

Hormonal changes

Injury to the nose

Nasal polyps

Medications

Drug use (cocaine)

Cluster headaches

Symptoms of runny nose

The main symptom of a runny nose is a thin mucus out of the nasal
passages (or running down the back of the throat). A runny nose can
also be accompanied by:

Blocked nose

Sneezing

Red, sore eyes

Loss of smell

Breathing problems

Headache

Fatigue

Sinus pain

Diagnosis of runny nose

In most cases, a runny nose
is mildly irritating and caused by something that doesn't require
medical attention (such as a common cold). However, if symptoms are
persistent then it could indicate a more serious underlying problem.

You should seek a medical opinion if:

Symptoms are present for ten days or more

You have a fever for more than three days

The
discharge from your nose is green in colour and accompanied by sinus
pain or fever as this can indicate a bacterial infection

You already suffer with asthma or emphysema

You have blood in your nasal discharge

Your child is under two months old and has a runny nose and fever

If your runny nose has been caused by a head injury then seek emergency medical attention.